Ebikes on BLM lands

[slowleego]

Like them or hate them, the BLM is looking for public comment regarding their use.

Here is the link to voice your concerns or opinion: https://www.blm.gov/press-release/blm-seeks-public-comment-proposed-e-bike-regulations?fbclid=IwAR21OMkGmdQzLtDi3uvMmRtqIHgqkd61bXADpBZYIbCXd5CoPgHXOqMYKQk

[LostInTheTrees]

Here’s the response I sent. I’m still lurking here, though the traffic has dwindled to almost nothing.

They should be allowed. I’ve been a mountain biker for 20+ years and turned 70 last year. It was something I did at least weekly for many year. Now at my age I am doing it less, but not enjoying it less. I have not gotten one yet, but I am certain an Ebike will extend my riding by many years. I am definitely going to retrofit my mountain bike as an Ebike.

There are classes of Ebike. Riding one that operates with a simple throttle should not be allowed . A regulation prohibiting it should be in place, but it clearly cannot really be enforced. That’s OK. “Pedelec” bikes, those which require pedaling input should be the ones allowed.

A speed limit is not realistic, though it might seem like it. When going downhill, it is natural to exceed the usual 15 mph limit. It is part of mountain biking and it makes no sense to try and take it away.

As a long time mountain biker I am disgusted by the idea of young fit people using Ebikes. But this cannot be prohibited. It can and will be minimized by peer pressure. It is a problem we have to put up with.

Prohibiting Ebikes would be a mistake. It would take millions of people out of the sport prematurely during their lives or prevent those with disabilities from ever enjoying it. The other problems can be managed.

[CGJeff]

Curious if there has been any news since this post and the BLM comment session?  Definitely not the one to want to break any rules, so just wondering what the view is on ebikes at Whypass?  Although I have not personally seen any, I have been told they are being ridden in the Whypass network, and on other BLM/USFS trails in Oregon.

Seriously considering purchasing one, so just checking in.

Thanks!

[slowleego]

The comment period will close soon, but I don’t know when the BLM will make an official decision yet. When it happens, it’ll get posted up on the club sites.  Riding ebikes at Whypass is a “grey area” right now. It’s not technically illegal, as BLM doesn’t have an official rule yet. I ride mine out there occasionally, and it’s a blast.

 

Cheers,

Lee

[CGJeff]

Lee,

Thanks for the reply and update.  I have a bike on order and just checking out trails that can be ridden.  I realize it’s a sensitive subject for some, so definitely not looking to upset anyone while out having some fun.

Jeff

[slowleego]

Up around Oakridge you can also ride these trails on an eBike:

Alpine (Including Chrome Toilet Section)/ Lawler/ Tire Mtn/Dead Mtn/ Larrison Creek.

Did you get your new bike Jeff?

 

Lee

[CGJeff]

Lee,

I did finally receive my bike, it’s a YT Decoy “Mullet” (29 front/27.5 rear).  I’ve ridden a couple times at Whypass and one other location that’s e-bike friendly.  Making plans to ride some trails in Oakridge.  Prior to the YT, we were riding Dead Mtn. on a semi regular basis.

Definitely the best bike purchase I have made in a long time!

Jeff

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